Chapter 399
Oliver Valrose's gaze lingered on Evelyn Roland's face, yet he couldn't decipher the depths in her eyes.
His fists clenched, nails digging into his palms.
This time, he had prepared thoroughly. He wouldn't let this scheming woman outmaneuver him again.
"Fake?"
"The Valrose family wouldn't dare pass off counterfeits, would they?"
"Miss Roland has always had a sharp eye. If she says it's fake, there must be a reason."
"Looks like someone's jealous her sister landed a good catch."
Whispers swirled around them, each comment making Oliver's expression darken further.
He had to regain control—now.
Isabella Langley had been basking in the attention when she suddenly sensed the shift in atmosphere.
Her sharp eyes locked onto Oliver.
"What's going on?"
Cold sweat trickled down Oliver's back.
He slammed his hands on the table and stood abruptly. "Evelyn Roland! The Valrose family may not compare to the Rolands, but we still have our dignity! This raw jade was my father's treasured heirloom for years! I only brought it out for this charity event!"
His voice trembled, eyes reddening like a wronged victim.
Evelyn let out a soft scoff.
"Treasured heirloom?"
She leisurely raised her phone, displaying a near-identical photo of a jade stone.
"Then explain, Mr. Valrose—why does this 'priceless heirloom' look exactly like the one in my photo?"
The stone in the image gleamed with luster, while the one on the tray appeared dull and lifeless.
"Th-that photo must be doctored!" Oliver's voice pitched higher.
The room erupted in murmurs.
Someone suggested quietly, "Should we ask Alexander Roland to authenticate it?"
Oliver's face drained of color.
He pointed accusingly at Evelyn. "I'll sue you for defamation!"
Evelyn responded with an elegant "be my guest" gesture.
Isabella's eyelid twitched violently.
She suddenly stepped forward, shooting Oliver a reproachful look. "Oliver, how could you speak to my sister like that?"
Her performance earned surprised glances from the crowd.